San Jose Earthquakes Simon Dawkins fit to face Los Angeles Galaxy

SANTA CLARA -- The Earthquakes got a boost Tuesday on the eve of their MLS Western Conference showdown against the Los Angeles Galaxy when dynamic striker Simon Dawkins said he had recovered from an ankle sprain that had sidelined him for the last week of the regular season.

"Sunday was the first time I haven't felt anything," he said of playing 35 minutes in the second half in San Jose's 1-0 victory over the Galaxy in the first leg of the home-and-home series."My body says I'm fit."

Forward Alan Gordon, who had a career-best 13 goals this year, isn't as lucky. He conceded he needs a month to fully heal an ankle sprain.

"I'm just giving what I have," Gordon said. "I'll limp through 90 minutes if I have to to get the win."

Dawkins' presence Sunday contributed greatly to the team's success in Carson by settling the offense.

Coach Frank Yallop wouldn't reveal his lineup for Wednesday's match at Buck Shaw Stadium but indicated he might make some changes from the first game. The first move presumably would be to start Dawkins on the left wing as a third attacker behind Chris Wondolowski and Steven Lenhart.